esim travel travel-guide

How to transfer an eSIM from one iPhone

Are you wondering how to transfer an eSIM from one iPhone without losing connectivity? Whether you’re upgrading to the latest iPhone or simply switching devices, the process doesn’t have to be complicated. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to prepare and the step-by-step methods you can use. With the right approach, you’ll be able to enjoy seamless connectivity on your new device in just a few minutes.

Quick Facts: eSIM Transfer

What You Need to Know	Details
Time Required	2-10 minutes depending on method
Devices Needed	Old iPhone nearby (Quick Transfer) OR QR code from carrier
Internet Required	Yes (Wi-Fi or cellular)-except iPhone 14+ in some cases
Cost	Free for carrier eSIMs; travel eSIMs from $2.50
Old eSIM Status	Automatically deactivated after successful transfer
Important	eSIM can only be active on ONE device at a time

What You Need Before Transferring an eSIM

Proper preparation ensures a smooth transfer. Here's your checklist:

Essential Requirements

Both iPhones Ready:

Your old iPhone with the active eSIM
Your new iPhone (unboxed and charged)
Both devices running iOS 16 or later (check: Settings > General > Software Update)

Active Internet Connection: A stable Wi-Fi or cellular connection is essential-both iPhones need to communicate with your carrier's activation servers during the transfer. Exception: iPhone 14 and newer models can sometimes complete transfers without internet using advanced Bluetooth protocols.

Apple ID & Password: Have your Apple ID credentials ready. Both devices should ideally be signed into the same Apple ID for Quick Transfer to work seamlessly.

Carrier-Specific Preparation

Verify Carrier Support: Not all carriers support Apple's Quick Transfer feature:

Supported: AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile (US), major European carriers
May require QR code: Smaller MVNOs, regional carriers
Contact your carrier if unsure

For Travel eSIMs (BitJoy, Airalo, Holafly): If you're adding a travel eSIM for your trip, you'll use the QR code method instead of Quick Transfer. Your provider will email the QR code-save it in a safe place.

Important Distinctions

Transferring vs. Activating:

Transferring = Moving your CURRENT eSIM from old to new iPhone (this guide)
Activating = Setting up a NEW eSIM like a BitJoy travel plan (different process)

Pro Tips

Before You Start:

Screenshot your current cellular settings (Settings > Cellular) as backup reference
Back up your old iPhone via iCloud or Mac/PC-protects your data
If you have a travel eSIM with remaining data, use it before transferring
Keep any QR codes or activation emails accessible (especially for travel eSIMs)

Make sure you have both devices handy, the old iPhone with the eSIM and your new iPhone

Which Transfer Method Should You Use?

Choose your method based on your situation:

Method	Best For	Time	Requirements	Works With
Quick Transfer	Upgrading iPhone, both devices available	2-5 min	iOS 16+, Bluetooth ON, devices nearby, same Apple ID	Carrier eSIMs only
QR Code	New travel eSIM, old iPhone lost/broken, secondary eSIM	2 min	QR code from carrier/provider	Carrier + Travel eSIMs
Manual Entry	QR code won't scan, technical issues	5-10 min	SM-DP+ address, activation code	Any eSIM type

Quick Decision Guide:

Setting up new iPhone? → Use Quick Transfer (easiest)
Adding BitJoy for travel? → Use QR Code method
Old iPhone broken? → Use QR Code or Manual Entry
Carrier doesn't support Quick Transfer? → Use QR Code

3 Ways to Transfer an eSIM from One iPhone to Another

Transferring your eSIM from one iPhone to another can be a seamless process, enabling you to enjoy uninterrupted connectivity as you switch devices. Whether you're upgrading to a newer model or replacing a lost one, understanding the methods available for transferring your eSIM is essential. In this guide, we'll explore three effective ways to transfer your eSIM, ensuring that you have a smooth transition without losing access to your mobile network.

Transfer your eSIM using your Apple ID or iCloud account

This method allows you to transfer your eSIM even if the two iPhones are signed in with different Apple IDs, making it an incredibly convenient option. Although your Apple ID doesn’t directly validate the eSIM, it plays a crucial role during the authentication process for the transfer. Once the eSIM is successfully moved, it will automatically deactivate on your old device, ensuring that your number is only active on your new iPhone. Here are the key steps to follow:

Ensure both iPhones are running iOS 16 or later.
Confirm that both devices are unlocked and have Bluetooth enabled.
Position your iPhones close to each other.
Open the Settings app on your new iPhone.
Go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile > Add > Add eSIM.
Select Transfer From Another or Transfer from Nearby iPhone.
Follow the prompts that appear on your old iPhone.

After a few moments, your eSIM should be transferred, allowing for immediate use on your new device.

Transfer an eSIM Card with a QR Code

The QR code method is the most versatile option and the ONLY method that works for travel eSIMs like BitJoy, Airalo, or Holafly. This is also your solution in several real-world scenarios:

When to Use QR Code Method:

Activating a travel eSIM for your trip (most common use case)
Your old iPhone was lost, stolen, or broken
Your carrier doesn't support Quick Transfer
Adding a secondary eSIM for international travel while keeping your primary carrier active

For Travel eSIMs (BitJoy, Airalo, Holafly)

When you purchase a travel eSIM, you'll receive a QR code via email within 2 minutes. Here's what makes BitJoy's process smooth:

Instant delivery: QR code sent to your email immediately after purchase
5 reinstallations allowed: Can use the same QR code on different devices (unlike some competitors who limit to 1 installation)
No activation until you're ready: Code stays valid; activates when you connect to a network in your destination country
Starting from $2.50/GB: More affordable than most roaming options

Manually enter the eSIM card information

For those who may not have access to the old iPhone or a QR code, manually entering the eSIM card information is another viable option. This method involves inputting details directly into the new device, which can usually be found in the documentation provided by your carrier. Here’s how to go about it:

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Locate the eSIM information from your carrier (often referred to as the SM-DP+ address or activation code).
On your new iPhone, open the Settings app.
Select Cellular/Mobile > Add > Add eSIM.
Choose the option to Enter Details Manually.
Input the required information, including the SM-DP+ address and any other specified data.
Once all details are filled in, follow the prompts to complete the activation.

This method is particularly useful if you have an older eSIM plan and want to set it up on a new device while ensuring no disruption to your service.

Transferring your eSIM doesn’t have to be stressful if you know the right steps. From preparing your devices to choosing the most convenient method-whether via Apple ID, QR code, or manual setup-you now have a clear roadmap on how to transfer an eSIM from one iPhone successfully. Take a few minutes to prepare, and you’ll be ready to enjoy uninterrupted service on your new device. For more helpful tech guides and insights, don’t forget to explore Bitjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I transfer eSIM if my old iPhone is broken?

No Quick Transfer is possible without a functional old iPhone. However:

Carrier eSIMs: Contact your carrier for a new QR code
Travel eSIMs (BitJoy): Use your original QR code email-works up to 5 times

Pro tip: Always save eSIM QR code emails in a dedicated folder for this reason.

Will my phone number change when transferring eSIM?

No, your phone number stays exactly the same. Only the physical device changes. Your contacts, account settings, and phone number all remain identical.

Can I use Quick Transfer for travel eSIMs like BitJoy?

No. Quick Transfer only works for carrier-provided eSIMs (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, etc.).

For travel eSIMs from BitJoy, Airalo, or Holafly, you must use the QR code method-which is equally simple:

Check your email for the QR code
Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Scan QR Code
Done in 2 minutes

How many eSIMs can one iPhone hold?

Storage capacity: Most iPhones (XS and newer) can store 8-10 eSIM profiles

Active usage: Only 1-2 eSIMs can be active simultaneously (dual SIM setup)

Common setup for travelers:

Primary: Home carrier eSIM (for calls/texts/banking 2FA)
Secondary: BitJoy travel eSIM (for local data abroad)

This way you maintain your home number while using affordable local data rates.

What happens to my old iPhone after eSIM transfer?

The eSIM on your old iPhone is automatically deactivated-you'll see "No Service" or "SOS Only."

Your old iPhone can still:

Connect to Wi-Fi
Be used with a NEW eSIM or physical SIM card
Function as a backup device, iPod, or camera
Be given to family member (with new cellular plan)

It cannot: Use the transferred eSIM (already active on new device)

Can I transfer eSIM from Android to iPhone?

Yes, but only with iOS 18+ and specific carriers:

Supported in USA:

AT&T
T-Mobile
Verizon

Supported in Germany:

Telekom

Requirements:

iPhone 11 or newer with iOS 18+
Android device with Android 10+
Carrier must support cross-platform eSIM transfer

Most users will need to: Get a new QR code from carrier instead of direct transfer.

Do I need to delete the eSIM from my old iPhone first?

No, don't manually delete it. The transfer process automatically handles deactivation.

Manual deletion beforehand can sometimes complicate the transfer. Let the system manage it.

Can I reverse an eSIM transfer if I change my mind?

Yes, two ways:

Method 1 - Quick Transfer back: If both devices still meet requirements (iOS 16+, nearby, Bluetooth ON), transfer back using Quick Transfer process.

Method 2 - Contact carrier: Request a new QR code to activate on your old iPhone. The new device's eSIM will be deactivated.

For travel eSIMs (BitJoy): Use the same QR code-works up to 5 times, so you can switch devices freely.